Do You Wear a Camera?

Perhaps the biggest challenge I hear many of our readers talking about when it comes to their photography is that they struggle to find time to practice their photography.

The real problem though is that so many of us don’t have our camera with us when the photographic opportunities present. Instead they sit at home in a little bag that is full of well researched and rarely used gear.

But even when we take our camera with us it often remains in that bag.

I recently was reading Thorsten Overgaard’s site (pictured right) where make the statement that cameras should always ‘wear their camera’. He wrote:

“Things happen when you wear your camera. You get to see things and document them.”

By ‘wearing’ your camera Thorsten advocates actually having out of your bag, over your shoulder, switched on and ready to go at all times. Here’s how he explains it:

I say “always wear a camera,” and by that I mean that you have your camera over the shoulder, turned on, set to the right ISO and white balance. And then you look for things. If you do this, you will feel as a photographer, be aware of the viewpoint of the lens you have on the camera and start seeing photographs. And when you see something, you have to have a built-in reflex to slightly touch the release button so as to turn the camera from sleep mode to shooting mode; and by the time the camera has reached it’s place in front of your eye, it is powered up and ready. All you have to do is focus and shoot, then drop the camera so it falls back to its place by your hip.

I love the concept of ‘wearing’ your camera and have been experimenting with it myself this week. Instead of taking my camera in a bag with me (something I have done for a year now) I’m now wearing it over my shoulder more – it is having a big impact in three ways:

Accessibility

Firstly it is accessible – there’s no effort needed to get it out of the bag with an embarrassing ‘RIIIIP‘ of velcro destroying the mood and alerting everyone around that a photo is about to be taken. It’s in my hand in a flash and a moment can be captured quickly.

As a result I’ve taken more images in the last week but have spent less time specifically ‘doing’ photography as it has just happened.

Feeling like a Photographer

Secondly it impacts how I see myself. The things we ‘wear’ impact us in many ways. I know that when I put on a suit and tie and head to a wedding I do so with a different attitude and confidence than the days I sit around at home in jeans and an un ironed t-shirt. Likewise – ‘wearing’ my camera impacts how I feel. It puts me in a more observant and creative zone.

It also impacts my ‘intent’. Having a camera right there at my side at all times puts me much more in the zone of taking photos. I find myself less passive.

I guess ultimately wearing your camera does, like Thorsten says, make you ‘feel as a photographer’.

It Impacts Those Around You

Lastly, what we ‘wear’ impacts how others see us. Studies show us that people form lasting impressions of us based upon the clothes that we wear (among other things) and that we’re treated differently as a result. My observations this week are that ‘wearing’ a camera can similarly impact how others treat you. I’m not completely sure of how to describe other people’s reactions yet – perhaps I need a little more time at this – but there have been some interesting ones.

In one instance I was invited to photograph a situation because I had my camera out.

In another instance the camera opened up a fascinating conversation which led me to ask permission to photograph the person.

In another situation (with kids) having the camera out from the beginning of our interaction seemed to make it a more natural part of our time together and they were completely at ease when I started to use it

In a last instance the camera may have had a negative impact with a person seeming to seize up and become a little uncomfortable until I put the camera down.

There have also been a few jokes, raised eyebrows from friends and family – but overall the impact has been more positive than negative to this point.

Do you ‘Wear a Camera’?

I’d love to hear from others who ‘wear’ cameras? What is your experience of doing so? What impact does it have upon you, those around you and your photography?

I have the same problem living in Sao Paulo, Brazil. I already had my Nikon D700 with lens stolen at Christmas two years a go, I recently had my iPhone stolen in Rio, and between these incidents I have been beaten, held at gun point and had several other altercations and attempted robberies and assaults. This is only after 3 years of life in Brazil. So, although I do take my camera (my second digital since the DSLR was stolen; a black Fuji X100) with me every day in a small bag, I can’t wear it for easy access or carry it all the time ready to shoot. It’s just not safe, and people already think I’m crazy for walking the streets at night in certain areas with a camera or for fighting off attackers who have failed twice to take my Fuji. Different reality for those of us in third world cities or marginalised communities. “Do you wear your camera?” Sure, when I am in that elite group who have money for Leicas and lenses and who can afford to insure and replace them and live and shoot in safe European capitals. Different reality.

Considering the legacy of Leica cameras and the nature of documentary, reportage and journalistic photography is rooted in war correspondence and honest portrayals of the human condition in remote and dangerous parts of the world, and not in parading your camera in D&G leather man-bags for snapping the pampered 1% in Viennese cafe’s, then I think a more balanced and objective should be written.

blake

Tvo is a hack photographer, running a series of scam workshops that are overpriced. He and his fellow scientology nut bags are a menace to good photography

Jeremy H. Greenberg

I’m on Day 100 of a Project 365. So basically, yes, I wear a camera everyday. It’s the only way to work on a massive project of this type. 35mm film cameras look great with suits and casual clothing. DLSR not so much.

Some Older Comments

AllanJanuary 4, 2013 10:19 am

I don't exactly "wear" a camera, unless carrying it in a jacket pocket counts. I have two large Canon DSLRs but I bought a pocket-size Sony so I can always have it with me. It's not an economy model, it has 18+mp and a 20x zoom and more bells and whistles than I'll ever use, all crammed into this pocket size companion.

CharleeJanuary 4, 2013 07:05 am

I would love to carry my camera with me all the time, but working for the federal government has its limitations. Even though I have photographed a number of official functions, only as a favor, people tend to look at your differently when walking around government buildings carrying a camera.

Joe ElarioDecember 31, 2012 01:07 am

I do wear ( my Leica's) most of the time , I agree it is so important.
No-one / body, practices this better than : Jay Maisel . . . .

satyamMay 10, 2012 03:32 pm

I never wear my DSLR around my neck.I wear it like a hand band....I bind the strap of my camera on my right wrist as such it grips my wrist good enough to click comfortably in any direction , in any ways, in any angle ..with or without using ,even, the viewfinder or live view mode !

http://flickr/ssatyamm
http://pixoto.com/ssatyamm

johnMay 2, 2012 09:35 pm

This days, I bring my gear out everyday(include tripod)
and as long as the situation is possible,
I will not only wear the Camera, but keep my finger on the shutter button of my camera

You just will never know when will you get a photo chance

Bhaven JaniMay 2, 2012 07:11 pm

This is an exciting article, and while I have always wanted to 'wear' my camera every time i stepped out of my house, I've been shy or lazy to do that. But I think thats the best way to click more pics and improve yourself. And possibly land an assignment too.

You can check out my work at:
www.bhavenjani.wordpress.com and
www.bhavenjani.photoshelter.com

Mark andersenMay 1, 2012 10:56 am

I carry a P&S in a pouch on my belt at all times except when asleep. Simple, easy, light, practical and ever present.
If I find myself waiting for someone, I experiment with it to learn how to use it better. It is better than wasting my time.

JaniceApril 30, 2012 04:49 am

I don't wear my camera.... yet. I'll start. I actually think my friends and family think of me as a photographer more than I do lately. When I think of grabbing my camera, it does seem like a lot of effort and not part of a routine.
This article is really convincing me to WEAR my camera with pride, enthusiasm and ease.

JennyApril 27, 2012 03:29 pm

I would love to wear my camera at the ready but I'm afraid I'll get mugged.

tanja cardaApril 27, 2012 09:22 am

I always wear my camera and sometimes worry what other think when i take random photos but i am trying very hard not to care. I used to bring it along in a bag but 90% of the time it never got used so i started wearing it a few months ago. I'm sure some people think i am crazy but that's just way better than being normal...right?

Rebecca DruApril 27, 2012 07:00 am

I have worn a cam since I was a kid...I truly live my life through my lens For me, the moment I leave my home It's on me.... Everywhere I go..everything I do..I constantly see moments in time I want to capture...images all around me. Sometimes, it drives the people I'm with mad because I'm always snappin' a pix....so, I've tried to go out with out my cam...and I can't help point out what I see...

Jeniffer SimmonsApril 27, 2012 05:12 am

Wearing you camera around your neck or shoulder at all times is one thing, but having the proper ISO and white balance for every possible situation is impossible. The only way one might come close to this is by having all this set to "auto" and even then you are not promised a perfectly exposure.

ChazApril 26, 2012 11:38 pm

The best Photos I have ever taken have been whilst I have been wearing my Camera and my biggest regrets are when I had it with me but it was in my bag, You find yourself fussing to get the camera out only for the opportunity to pass you by, You hope that moment comes back but it doesn't.

You can't have it all ways......Some opportunistic shots may require a wide or telephoto lens combined with a flashgun, although when I am in a pub, club or other poorly lit establishments I make sure I am wearing the camera with at least 17-85 and a flash unless I am concentrating on portrait solo shots then its the 50mm prime lens all the way :)

Charles E PikeApril 26, 2012 04:47 am

I go to uptown Charlotte several times a month, and when I step off the lightrail I take my camera from my case, and walk around town. I have made friends of several of the uptown food and flower vendors. I almost always shoot with a 20mm (40mm in 35mm terms) and sometimes with the 14 (28 if it were a 35mm camera). So when I take someones photograph, they know I am there. I have had several interesting interplay with the many people I meet, and in the few years I have done this, I have only had one person turn me down. You could say it is more documentary than street photography, but I do take both. When we go on vacation, the camera goes around my neck, and stays there. You just never know when you are going to come up on some shot, and you really need to stay ready. We just returned from a trip to Savannah, GA, and we went to a ice cream parlor, and I asked if I could take some of the shots of them working. They were really happy to help. That is something that I learned from a photographer who shoots for our daily newspaper. Ask if you can shoot what they are doing. Most people are proud of what they do and don't mind your recording it.

CaraApril 25, 2012 11:34 pm

I never leave home without my camera, I always have the bag with the exta lenses, but I always have the camera out and on on the passanger seat of my car ready for whatever happens!!

PaulBApril 25, 2012 10:07 pm

A camera can of course be male jewelery in some instances!!

EmilyApril 24, 2012 06:26 am

whenever i am at a new place or a social event or even when i am walking down the street i hook my camera to my anyard and go. it always helps me get the best photos

Bob ChristApril 23, 2012 12:53 pm

I always wear my camera, so much so my wife calls it my pocketbook,I used to just bring my camera to events, and then about two years ago I started bringing it when ever I left the house, My photography has improved ten fold, and I now get some amazing photos.
So I say the bag is for storage the camera is for photographing what ever you enjoy.
Bob C

Romeo YbanezApril 23, 2012 02:18 am

In the Philippines, you have a greater chance of losing your camera to the snatchers or hold uppers if you wear you camera on the streets.

F.ZamanApril 23, 2012 01:59 am

Usually ,I carry a compact camera where I go ,in my pocket but 'Wearing a camera'? It does not look bad at all !

Matt GregorApril 23, 2012 01:18 am

I wear my Nikon D5000 basically in my hand all the time. The strap just gets conveniently wrapped around my wrist so it's not dangling or in the way. I pretty much look like I have a prosthetic limb but my friends and family have grown to expect it. :)

Dave CoyneApril 22, 2012 12:09 pm

Nine years ago, on the way to work, I almost drove past a stop sign in rural Lagrange County, Indiana because it was overgrown with vegetation and hardly visible. I thought to myself that I should take a picture of it and send it to the authorities before someone got hurt. I kept meaning to bring a camera. One morning a couple weeks later, on July 1, 2003, the overgrowth was so bad, I determined that I would absolutely bring a camera the next morning. An hour later,a vehicle with three young men drove past the stop sign and into a flat bed semi that was hauling a load of lumber. All three died.

Ever since, I have carried a camera and a heavy load of guilt.

Last week, I emailed the authorities some pictures of a stop sign that had trees blocking its view.The branches were trimmed before anyone got hurt.

Travis JuntaraApril 22, 2012 08:17 am

I certainly wear a camera, but like javan, I don't trust myself with expensive equipment. I stick to film because it won't get stolen (I shoot with cheap cams and toy cams) and it delivers the shallow depth of field if I want it in a compact form. Also, it feels like everyone carries or uses a DSLR nowadays and its appearance bores me frankly. Also, I'm not a photographer or hobbyist. I feel that inexpensive equipment just has a lighter mood to them.

Daphne BahamondeApril 22, 2012 06:07 am

This was funny to me - See, I wear my camera, but I started doing it more out of convenience. I have small children and wanted less things to carry. Then I noticed that it meant people were less aware of the camera when we went places and I could take photos without people becoming stiff or posing.
I still travel with small children and I still wear my camera - now I think I do it just to be ready for anything.
Thanks for the validation!
And Colin, Thanks for that helpful hint! I am going to try that because that is a huge issue for me.

Malcolm MillerApril 22, 2012 02:46 am

I have always carried my camera with me, however recently i bought a 'B Grip' which makes it extremely easy, the belt has a clip which has a quick release and the camera is in your hand in seconds also allows you free hands while walking and does not swing everywhere or hit things when you bend or turn. I use a Canon 5D mark 2 and leaving the camera in the on position means very little as the camera can last what seems like weeks in this setting and I always carry spare batteries in case. When I first saw the B Grip I thought it would be a bit gimmicky but now I put it on almost always (exceptions being in bed and at the toilet).

Colin BurtApril 21, 2012 06:57 pm

If you wear your camera with a long lens attached it tends to stick out and bump into things and is generally vulnerable to damage. It is easy, for the price of a bootlace, to make it lie flat against your body where it is less obvious to thieves, leass likely to get damaged, and can be covered by a raincoat if necessary in a shower or to conceal it in an iffy neighbourhood See how at

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7202/7094562709_00c62018a9_z.jpg
\
Simply tie each end of the bootlace to the camera straps near the camera and pass the loop thus formed under the edge of the 'tripod plate' which you have attached to the base of the camera . Does not interfere with lifting the camera to the eye.

JasonApril 21, 2012 12:54 pm

I can't say that I 'wear my camera" but I do carry it on a sling about 50% of the time. Thats a lot really. Think of all the trips to the store (yup).. or to grab fast food (yup)..

And its a big camera, I shoot with a 5D mark III with a 70-200mm F2.8 IS II. I usually carry it with a BlackRapid strap, but I am thinking of switching - so I am in the market for the PERFECT camera strap. Even if that means making one myself (which I am tinkering with as we speak)

It has gotten me many gigs, lots of cash, and I even caught some accidents, news stories, and weather phenomenon.

BUT THE MOST INTERESTING PART:

I have two jobs, I am a photographer AND a pro-pilot. I fly all over the place, with camera on my sling, grabbing pictures from the most amazing places with the most amazing situations. Like him or hate him, I saw Obama before he was president in Las Vegas, and "shot him" climbing into his plane with secret service all over him. I even caught a few pictures I decided to delete while in flight over nevada. I will just leave it at that.

Gotta bring your camera with you people - otherwise why did you buy it? If you think its a pain, you've got the wrong gear. If all you are comfy with is an iphone- fine..use that! But you gotta use your gear or its nothing but a dust collector!

Victoria BApril 21, 2012 11:03 am

I always wear my camera. I never know when I'm going to need it, and leaving it home is just too heart wrenching for me. I really feel like it's developed my eye for pictures.

Mandeno MomentsApril 21, 2012 09:48 am

Numerous people have commented on pain and discomfort caused by neck straps. I use OpTech straps, which have a stretchy neck pad and make even a 400g camera a lot more comfortable to carry. The stretchy pad absorbs some of the forces that would otherwise be transmitted to your neck.

People have also commented on the conspicuousness of cameras. The human eye is strongly attracted to words and numbers, so if you have a black camera and cover the brand name and other badges with black electrical tape the camera will be a little less conspicuous. For the same reason, use a plain black strap rather than one covered in branding. A friend of mine who travels a lot in SE Asia says that people also do these things to reduce the risk of theft.

Harro KApril 21, 2012 08:13 am

I've found that a lot of people react adverse when I carry a camera in plain sight. Not that they object to pictures being taken, but simple because it is in plain sight. I've got a smaal camera bag attached to my belt and it hides easily under a loosely worn jacket. My bag is rather small, I did particularly chose a compact system camera (Panasonic G1) in order to carry it easily.

Walter PikeApril 21, 2012 06:58 am

I carry my Nikon D7000 with a 24-70mm lens with the lens pointing inwards my body wherever I go, switched on - no lens cap, hood on, not a single negative reaction ever. I carry it in central Johannesburg no issues, the one thing I did do was to swap the Nikon strap for a crumpler strap so that it's not too conspicuous. I have seen a strap with a thin steel cable which helps prevent theft

I think that this article is exactly right.

GeorgiaApril 21, 2012 04:26 am

I do "wear" my camera! At least my Panasonic Lumix FZ18, because it lighter weight than my Canon Rebel. I never thought of leaving it in sleep mode, though. That will be very handy now that I know!
People that see it often ask me what I take pictures of. I tell them "Everything!" I live in a very picturesque area and it seems there is always something amazing to capture. Frankly, I've always felt somewhat "freakish" as a result, lol. I'm so glad I'm not alone=)

ChrisApril 21, 2012 04:23 am

I couldn't disagree with fuzzypiggy any more. I carry my camera just about everywhere and it is not a burden at all. Sometimes I don't shoot a single frame all day, but other times I stumble upon things that no amount of planning or artsy-fartsyness could ever recreate. When I do, I shoot it using all of the skill and care that the situation allows, often only shooting two or three frames just so I have a bracket or a safety.

Some people feel the need to analyze a scene to death and "craft" a work of art, while others see something cool and whip off a couple of shots. If they are both happy with the results, who cares?

AhmadApril 21, 2012 03:59 am

I am new to this field without any professional camera. I have my fujifilm s1600. I agree that we can learn much by having camera out but in a country like Pakistan it is an awkward idea. once i was shooting on our own lands trying to capture hot, scorching sun, while i was trying to focus over sun so i was unable to view around me, an old woman who was coming from the other end of passage, i could not see her. she stopped and asked me why i was photographing her? this was such a strange situation for me, although i made it clear to her that it was not for her, but still i shudder when i decide to take camera out with me. it is very difficult for a shy person like me to photograph in public in such a country.
Not good experience... :( although i recorded a movie from my car in the night...

Jodie RichelleApril 21, 2012 03:43 am

What a great topic of discussion. It's a psychology class, essentially. How we feel as a photographers (I tend to feel like an intruder) affects everything we do. "Wearing your camera" shows how we see ourselves and also affects how others see us.

sandy cesselliApril 21, 2012 02:35 am

I wear my DSLR at events or at places when I know opportunities will happen. I travel a lot for work so the DSLR is always with me while on the road strapped to the truck headrest or the passenger seat for quick and easy access.

I am never caught without my point and shoot, that travels every where with me. I even take it everytime I go for a run by attaching the case to my running pack. I have never missed a shot on my jogging route.
While hiking, backpacking, and travelling I will sacrifice space for my camera and pitch items out that I decide are less important to me.

Patty KiddApril 21, 2012 02:01 am

I love my little Canon S-95 because it fits in my pocket/ handbag. It takes great pics. Everytime I thing of getting a 'fancy' camera I realize -I already have it! It's with me everywhere I go! And yes- if you don't have it- you could miss the perfect shot!

PennyApril 21, 2012 01:58 am

I rarely acually wear my cameras but always have one with me, in hand bag or the very small Fuji EXR 600 in a pocket. wouldn't be without it. Wearing it might unfortunately invite trouble and being an oap it would be I would be an easy target.

peetApril 20, 2012 10:19 pm

I find that a small film slr has much less stigma attached than a bulky dslr

Trond LindholmApril 20, 2012 08:47 pm

I always wear my camera - read more about it in Media Tapper where I was featured today http://mediatapper.com/shooting-in-the-streets-and-alleyways-trond-lindholm/

AndreaApril 20, 2012 06:12 pm

I constantly have my camera with me (it's just a little point and shoot), and though I usually don't use it, I always wanna kick myself when I see something really inspiring and I don't have it with. I'd rather have it and not need it as they say.

Lpburke86April 20, 2012 05:38 pm

I wear a camera like I wear a watch and a gun... What's the point in having it if you don't carry it...

oldcrowApril 20, 2012 05:29 pm

We frequently go bird wathcing in our neighborhood and I always take my camera (Sony Cybershot DSC-HX200V), binocs and a tripod. I'm an older short and somewhat tubby lady and I usually also carry a small purse. That's three items strapped across my ample torso! The purse is on the longest strap - a thin webstrap sewn doubled over a coated heavy guage wire (by myself) to thwart cut-purses; the binocs on the next longest strap hang at about waist level and the camera hangs above it where the uncapped lens is safe from scratches. I've attached a velcro strap around the tripod to hold the legs closed and use it as a walking stick - although it is a bit bulky for that purpose - biut it's also always at the ready. Yesterday I got in a brief movie of a young beaver at the local pond. It was only out of the water for a few moments so if I hadn't been ready I'd never have gotten it. By the way - I love this new Sony!

Ben InghamApril 20, 2012 03:04 pm

Intead of hauling a large DSLR around with me, I choose instead to carry a small compact camera in my pocket. With 14MP always right there, available to me, I can capture any moment at LEAST satisfactorily.

Sheila OctaviaonApril 20, 2012 11:59 am

I take my camera almost everywhere. I live in a rainy climate, but if it's raining I just tuck it inside my sweatshirt and zip it up just enough to cover the camera. Because of the nature of my work and not wanting to leave a camera in my car all day, I haven't been in the habit of taking it to work. These are always the times I see things that make me kick myself for not having my camera. I thought it would be great to have a phone with a camera, but I have yet to get a really good shot using my phone. This makes me realize that I need to carry my point and shoot with me for those moments when I don't have my DSLR. It fits fairly well in my purse so it won't take up much room in my locker and then the next time one of those photo opportunities comes along I can have a good chance of capturing it. When I do take my camera (almost everywhere else) I mostly wear it. I'm glad to hear there are better straps then the neck strap. I often find myself just carrying it in my hand because the neck strap becomes uncomfortable. I have a really nice photo gear backpack, but my camera is seldom in it. When I do take a walk with my camera I use a lightweight bag for an extra lens and whatever else I think I might use while out. It is faster to access than the backpack and if I think I am going to change lenses a lot I clip a lens pouch to my belt loops. I have not had any negative experiences with people other than some who are a little camera shy, in which case I assure them I would never take their picture without permission. My friends and acquaintances are very used to me and my camera. It's like part of my hand. I only put it around my neck when I need both hands, but I will try that Quick Strap I saw mentioned.

Marcum YatesApril 20, 2012 11:31 am

My OM Pen E-PL1 is with me all the time, either with a 14-42mm zoom, or a Lensbaby tilt transformer composer and optic. My dSLR is in a bag with me as well with a few accessories for both systems. I do not carry accessory flash units and rarely use the built in flash. The balance of my "stuff", tripod, extra batteries, chargers, etc., are in my vehicle near by.

Patricia KnightApril 20, 2012 09:04 am

I have been wearing my camera more now that I have a decent strap. No longer using my neck strap because I found the weight to be too much. Now I have a Quick Strap which I love. makes it much more enjoyable to wear my camera now. And best of all, the Quick Strap was less than $20 on Amazon. Always a plus to find camera accessories that don't cost an arm and a leg.

Brian LemburgApril 20, 2012 07:44 am

Being a portrait ,band and street photographer I feel naked without my camera.I find 99% of people love there picture taken especially by a professional.And I find it's a great way to get new clients by just walking down the street smiling and shaking peoples hands.Most people tend to be big hams and will pose for a free photo.
And yes I carry my camera everywhere,walking the dogs,going to the grocery-store,going to the bar.I learned the hard way that the day you don't have your camera is the day you wish you had it.I found out from experience to go with the lightest ,more versatile camera gear out there.I found that an Olympus E420 with a 14-42mm and a 40-150mm lenses weighs 4 pounds total.It's fast and professional looking enough to get attention but not to much to warrant any issues.I use a colorful guitar strap given to me by a very well known guitar player for some great images I shot of him.
I closing I have only one thing to say~if you love it and want to be a professional photographer you have to carry your camera everywhere you go.

carolApril 20, 2012 07:16 am

I don't "wear" my camera even when I have my camera. I have few friends who freak out when they see I dont' have my strap on. After much harping as to why I need to "wear" my camera, I finally told them the awful truth. i don't where my camera because I have a 44D chest. It ends up sitting under my chin. LOL!

james stodolaApril 20, 2012 06:20 am

I too always have my camera on my shoulder. I have found that if i do not have it, way too many opportunities present themselves. My family has gotten used to having their own personal "paparazzi" on hand. I will nevwr be without a camera ever again.

Jean-MichelApril 20, 2012 06:17 am

I don't wear gear... It must be discrete, very discrete. I often go in countries where the price of my gear can be used by a family to eat for several months. Then, I don't show it. Discret bag, but with a fast and easy access (like Kata 3N1 or Agile Manfrotto, following the material needed. Discrete gear, Leica M3 and Fuji X-Pro 1 that not intimidate people...

EdApril 20, 2012 05:49 am

I do agree with your article that having your camera at the ready affords many more opportunities, but I guess I must "look like a real tourist" when out and about! I often "wear" two cameras: my trusty Nikon D40 with Nikkor 35mm f/1.8; and my D5100 with either a Nikkor 18-135mm or 55-300mm VR. Usually both cameras are set to Program Auto, and auto WB, and I can quickly change ISO with "two clicks".

When it's better to be inconspicuous, I arm myself with a little 8MP SONY W-90 P&S (3X optical zoom) and/or my 10MP Nikon P80 (18X optical zoom), both with the same setup.

I only "dangle" my Sigma 150-500mm from the D5100 on "special occasions"!

JaniceApril 20, 2012 05:37 am

I always wear my camera, even to the grocery store. Doesn't everyone?

Steve M.April 20, 2012 05:28 am

I don't always wear my camera, but I do take one with me everyday. I had a D90, then bought a D7000, keeping the D90. I didn't want to carry that much gear with me all the time, so I bought a used (1550 shutter clicks) D70 on ebay for about $ 200, and with a couple inexpensive lenses, I have a DSLR "trunk camera" bag that has less the $ 500 invested. I have brought it out many times and gotten interesting shots that I've really liked that otherwise I wouldn't have gotten. I recall one shot I took, while driving saw a mailbox that was made out to look like an old reel movie camera. Not an award winner, but fun nevertheless.

Adam R.April 20, 2012 05:19 am

I'm not sure I understand the negative POV of 'spray n pray'. I suspect there are more people, than the naysayers realize, that actually try to think while shooting rather than holding down high-speed continuous like my 4 year old _loves_ to do.

I appreciate Fuzzypiggy and Mr. Ulster sharing their perspectives. I will only add this -- a great teacher (of music... but applicable to all art forms) once said:

"Knowledge is not skill. Knowledge plus 10,000 times is skill"

The nugget here is that while you indeed *must* visualize, think, mentally compose, build your intra-cranial database, and mentally adjust, (the "Knowledge") you aren't going to get better unless you PRACTICE (the "10,000 times"). You must do! I'm not going to publish great photos by just pontificating about it (I know that's not what Fuzzypiggy was asserting, but just saying), but putting your hands on the camera, adjusting zoom, exposure, ISO, and allowing the feedback loop to your brain, in the right time. It's kinda like creating muscle memory. Even in Landscape photography. That Bald Eagle may only look directly at you for a sliver of time.

You will need to take many photos to get better. If you're a beginner, you will take lots, mostly elementary, maybe some even great. As you get better (by mentally analyzing *and* practicing), you will develop the discriminating, critical eye that distinguishes great from luck. Your ratio of keepers to throw-aways will increase.

I look at the digital sensor age as a great blessing -- affords many people the opportunity to more fully express their science and creativity than what they could only do in their heads, or on a roll of 24 that required an annoying, and often limited, development budget.

although some might argue that the requirement of shelling out cash will cause you to value you photos more...trading value for value But anyway. :)

Ball LightningApril 20, 2012 04:58 am

I wear my iPhone on a lanyard so yes I definitely do wear my camera. Have been ever since I got my 4s.

TysonApril 20, 2012 04:55 am

I rarely, rarely wear my camera. I don't know why I don't though. I've been meaning to do so for quite some time, and I have missed a good many excellent shots over the years. Maybe this article will be the motivation for me to start taking it with me.

Amy DuvalApril 20, 2012 04:52 am

I do wear my camera, between 1/2 to 3/4 of the time when I leave the house. I have 5 children and I'm able to capture cute little moments that I wouldn't be able to otherwise; in addition to other wonderful things I see throughout the world.

Bibi, SerbiaApril 20, 2012 04:51 am

I nearly ALWAYS wear my camera strapped across my chest, hip-level and it is always on. I'm a photoblogger and wouldn't make nearly any good shots if I didn't wear it this way. I don't use a lens cap either! Having it hip-level also lets me sometimes 'sneak' shots of scenes beside me...

Sherry BaldyApril 20, 2012 04:42 am

I always wear mine, even to church! Mostly I get jokes about wearing it everywhere, I jokingly told some ladies one day that I was gonna tell my family that when I leave this world I want them to be sure to but it around my neck in the casket and one of the ladies replied that someone should rig it to take a picture whenever someone stopped to pay their last respects! LOL Seriously though Ive found when I dont have it Im kicking myself because that would always be when I needed it so Ive made it a point to wear it almost everywhere I go!

Craig CrowderApril 20, 2012 04:38 am

Yes, I do wear my camera, but I try not too look like a dufas, when I do it. (please see picture above...)

Aside from looking like a tourist, wearing my camera on the strap that it came with was uncomfortable, inconvenient, and advertised the camera (by brand and type) as a great target for theft. I found that I had significant fatigue, at the end of a day, or even after a long walk. Forget about an all day thing. My neck just ached by the end of the day.

So, I looked at sling straps and found that the Black Rapid and the Carry Speed were both extremely comfortable and convenient. I liked the Carry Speed strap better, and at about 1/2 the cost, it was a better deal, but any sling strap would have worked. I'm really happy with it, it's more comfortable, it's easy to access and use my camera, I take more pictures (and I think better pictures), and I'm less worried about theft. A sling strapped camera can be moved from hip, to the front of the body, to the back, as needed to fit through doors or narrow passages. Also, my sling strap will go on WITH my camera backpack, which makes it super easy to deal with.

John LambertApril 20, 2012 04:26 am

My camera and lens (Canon 5D Mk.II) is so heavy it begins to be a handicap after a while. I usually shoot movies so I have it connected to a telescoped tripod which presents further difficulties. I sometimes wish camera makers could design something light and easy to carry. It is a real nuisance to pull out the feet of the tripod and set it up every time i see something I want to shoot. For good steady videos, a tripod is a must. A monopod just won''t do it.

keith brunerApril 20, 2012 04:05 am

I remember not having my camera one evening. Drove around a corner on to a small bridge and there was a police car in the creek below the bridge, a policaeman on the roof of the car waving, about the only thing out of the water was the policeman, the roof of the car, and the lashing light which was still working.

Draku ZeosApril 20, 2012 04:04 am

This is a GREAT way to express photographers' need to keep a camera handy all the time. I'm a combination writer/photographer and while I keep a pad, pen, PC and camera WITH me, in my pack at all times, ON me would be so much better. Just last night, I had to settle for a phone-based image of a moment I would have LOVED to have captured even with my pocket camera. Gosh-darn-it, if we're photographers, then why NOT accessorize with our cameras? If the rest of the world has decide it's OK to be seen wondering around with mp3 players and smart phones either in hand or dangling from the nearest hardpoint, why not a camera, which I actually will USE every day. I'm not weighed down by music players or a phone so big it could be a camera, so why not?! GREAT suggestion and great point of view. Love it!

SandyApril 20, 2012 04:02 am

this year i started carrying my slr in my purse for just this reason...spontaneous moments, once in a life time shots. people have asked me to take their picture and then give me their email to have them sent. i mainly just love my camera and love taking pictures so its on me almost all of the time.

GolfzillaApril 20, 2012 03:58 am

I always have an iPhone with me. If I want to be more serious than that, I wear a Canon G12 in a Black Rapid SnapR strap. Very handy. I suck at PJ stuff, but If I need more control or more than 10MP, I move up to a DSLR, with a Black Rapid strap. I seldom carry a bag with extra lenses and accessories. Typical walkaround lens is either a Tamron 17-50mm or Canon 24-105mm.

keith brunerApril 20, 2012 03:52 am

In my current employment spot, I do not wear a camera. 300 inches of rain a year. In the past and in better climates I have worn my camera and I can relate to many of Darrens comments. The way it relaxes kids can be really helpful. I have run into the camera aware people who feel they are very photogenic and sometimes the situation can be a tad tense.

By the way this job is 24 hours a day. We live at the job, our living is part of the job.

AmandaApril 20, 2012 03:44 am

I love the concept of wearing my camera. The other day my boyfriend and I went to an area of town we don't normally get to venture to for our anniversary and I had my camera and my camera bag with me. I wanted to simply take my camera into the mall we were walking around in and he looked at me odd. I said the bag is quite heavy I prefer to wear it around my neck. At that point and time I really didn't want to tell him I wanted to feel more like a photographer like you said. It gives you the feeling that at any time you can pull it out and take that perfect photo. I love wearing my camera :)

Thank you for the wonderful article

Karen McCannApril 20, 2012 03:25 am

This is really good advice, and I like this article, it raises so many interesting points. Yes! I wear a camera whenever I leave home. My Canon Rebel T2i is rather heavy and it sticks out (making it difficult to avoid banging the lens into doors etc.), so instead I take my Nikon S9100 on errands etc. It's been reviewed on-line as the best of the point-and-shoots, and at about $250 it's really worth it. I only take the Canon on photo trips. The S9100 though limited can give some really good results (as long as I keep turning the exposure down). Also it's really good at close-ups of flowers. It's light - weighs very little; it's unobtrusive (people often don't notice that I'm using it); it's very easy to use.
It's really valuable to me to always have a camera handy, because I just never know when that great shot will pop-up in front of me. Or even something that's just interesting that I don't want to miss. Or a great background shot, a great sky, a cute dog, a beautiful flower ...
Because, you know, there are always surprises in photography. Planned shots sometimes come out badly; "grab shots" sometimes come out really well.
And yes I find that people treat me differently when I'm wearing a camera - hard to describe though. It's as if the camera makes me non-threatening ... or easier to relate to ... or just "one of us" - ?? Many people have started conversations with me because I'm wearing a camera - they ask me about it and I'm always happy to talk about my photo club and how much fun it is to take photos.
It's true: wearing a camera does, to some extent, define you as a person. Since I want to be defined that way it's OK by me!

TomApril 20, 2012 03:14 am

Since I got the Black Spider Widow spider holster, just bought my second, I enjoy taking my Nikon(s) with me.
Yea, I get some great ice breaking comments like: "sure like your six shooters, cowboy". :)

Ed LawApril 20, 2012 03:00 am

This is a great subject and like so many others, especially hobbyist, we did "wear" our 35mm; but, with the DSLR and particularly with lens hood attached it is awkward. If on the hip the banging into door jambs and people in a crowd becomes hazardous; if on the chest it is in the way most of the time but really handy for the instantaneous reaction.

The bag, even a small one, can carry an extra lens, filters, batteries and cards along with other personal accessory items.

So, I use my iPhone as my "wear camera."

Osman QuadApril 20, 2012 02:51 am

As a expat Boy living in Saudi Arabia, i've actually get alot of attention while wearing my camera when im with my family on the beach. Its true that saudos are strict but they dont like cameras because they feel youre gonna take photo of their women.
Even though, they still respect me. Highly. I have the standard 18-55 Canon lens on but they dont know the difference and they feel im some newspaper photographer. Honestly, i love the attention and being a head turner :) but sometimes there are those subjects you shouldn't dare point youre camera at. Even if its turned OFF

StashaApril 20, 2012 02:49 am

Love this. I do wear my camera. In fact there was only one day I left it at home last year and I felt 'naked' i also wear my smart phone around the neck so I can Instagram all day long. And I have in fact got a few clients just by talking to them while walking the dog. and wearing camera. Not that this was my purpose, but it sure was welcomed.

Karen GarvinApril 20, 2012 02:43 am

Yes, that "embarrassing ‘RIIIIP‘ of velcro" can be pretty off-putting. And as a small woman I often try to hide my camera when I'm not taking pictures because I don't want to look like I have something that's worth stealing. But I've been making more of an effort to at least take my camera to work with me or when I go for a walk.

Richard KeelingApril 20, 2012 02:42 am

I do wear my camera at almost all times and have been doing so for at least four years. It has got to the point that if I go out without it, I feel quite naked. There have definitely been times where having the camera with me has got me a shot I would never have otherwise obtained, and those shots please me a lot. It doesn't really matter that much what camera I use - sometimes I still use my aging Canon Rebel XT plus the venerable plastic f/1.8 50mm as that is the smallest and lightest camera combo I can put together. At other times I carry my more capable cameras and lenses. The point is to have at least something available to record an interesting image.

SandyApril 20, 2012 02:33 am

I like the idea of wearing a camera. I do walk around the beach at surf events and take pictures of our club members, volunteers and participants. It's a great way to meet new people and I get wonderful pictures by having the camera ready as I walk around. The only problem I have is not being able to change the lens--I may have to get another camera and wear both. :)

AluApril 20, 2012 02:30 am

Wear it, don't wear it ..... I go out every evening for a city walk , sometimes without a camera !
The purpose it to try and capture ideas, learning to train yourself to make a picture and not just pointless shoot, something which is a tremendously wasteful practice and easily avoided. My motto : Wear yourself as an observer at all times, even if you don't wear a camera.

John GramboApril 20, 2012 02:28 am

If I had a Leica M9, I would wear it all the time, even to bed. Lusting for Leica.

Vidya L NathanApril 20, 2012 02:25 am

I work with a news wire and I've been carrying my camera with me to work for about 6 months now. How has it helped me? From being looked at as a plain vanilla reporter, I am now looked at as the in-house "unofficial-official" photographer for the bureau. wearing a camera certainly helps, and yes, the velcro ripping sound, not only makes people conscious that the situation is about to be documented, but it breaks the flow of action as well.

Allan Z.April 20, 2012 02:14 am

In the picture with the man in a suit wearing his Leica, it appears that the bottom release lock is open (you can see the half-moon turnkey).

kimberlyApril 20, 2012 02:04 am

I would LOVE to wear my camera! I guess I worry about smacking it into something and damaging it. I baby it because I have walked into a screen door once with my zoom lens pointed up and it damaged the lens...another time I dropped my camera and busted the doubler lens I had on it...and jacked up my shorter lens as well...hmmm...thinking wearing mine may not be such a good idea for ME, although I do take it with me EVERYWHERE! I seriously get upset when I have missed a newly fallen snow on my drive home from work or a breathtaking sunrise on the way in to work. Thanks for this post, I may reconsider the whole thing now...

Paul NyeApril 20, 2012 01:52 am

I've fully transitioned to the Capture system. Loose your leash...

http://www.peakdesignltd.com/

Linda K.April 20, 2012 01:49 am

My camera (or a series of them over the years) has been like another appendage to me for almost 40 years now. I do not leave the house without it. I love that now that I can have my small digital in my purse, but love my bigger digital SLR way more!

afpenderApril 20, 2012 01:47 am

I've been wearing my camera bag everywhere, but I think I'd like to try this. The camera strap pulls at my neck, so I'm thinking of getting a body strap before I start - no point in turning myself into a hunchback.

NormaApril 20, 2012 01:40 am

Hi

I have been wanting to wear my camera for ages but I have back problems and find it too heavy to carry around.I have been thinking of selling mine to get a smaller one, but I would not know where to start looking for a replacement for my Nikon F50.
could you please recommend me a good and extra light camera that I could wear?

NabruneauApril 19, 2012 05:12 pm

I bought a nice black billingham bag that holds my MacBook air, paperwork, and a wonderful little ep3 with three pancakes. Weighs next to nothing and is never more then a few feet from my hand. Now if only I could keep track of my car keys.

I just hate walkin ou of the office and missing chances like this http://www.flickr.com/photos/nickneeds/5983874801/in/photostream

KishanApril 19, 2012 01:38 pm

Good article!! Like most of the people who commented here, I also wear a camera whenever I am on a vacation/business travel and also within my city/neighbourhood whenever I go for a Photo shoot. Its overwhelming how people react with you when you wear a camera, especially in villages in India.

Also, one of my friends who is a street photographer, advised me to take walk with a camera hanging around the neck with on the SemiAuto (P) mode with a Prime lens and visualize what the camera sees & click pictures from the chest level, without even looking into the ViewFinder :)

In the beginning it didnt give me any good results. But after practicing it for a few days I came up with some interesting shots which can be seen below:

I'm not a professional photographer but carry my camera all the time in my purse and once I take it out usually just carry on walking with it in my hand so I can flick it on and snap. Unlike jackieg my favorite subject is our urban wildlife so I don't get much opportunity to take time to compose....they compose and I hopefully am at the right place at the right time to snap it.

JackieGApril 19, 2012 02:47 am

I agree with Mr Ulster. It took me by surprise to see so many assuming that taking a camera everywhere means shooting everything at random. It doesn't, by any means!

I do take my camera most places, but I only shoot when I see something that inspires me. And when that happens I stop and take my time with it. My photography will not improve unless I practice it, not just think about it or visualize it as I go along. Comparing what I capture to what I imagined, and then working out how to get closer to my vision is what helps me improve. If I am not shooting, then the key element to improvement is missing.

Daniel UptonApril 18, 2012 09:31 pm

I'm curious why some people have such a strong reaction to how others take photos. I agree that we become better photographers by thinking as much as shooting. But how can these people be so confident about the process and substance of self expression and 'Art'? They can't!

Mr UlsterApril 18, 2012 05:30 pm

@FuzzyPiggy et al re "spray and pray": I agree to the extent that mindlessly snapping images and hoping one of them turns out alright is not good practice, and I argue this haphazardness will be reflected in the image.

The operative word is "mindlessly". Now, you can go to the other extreme and spend hours constructing (or waiting) for that perfect shot.

Instead, once you learn what style of photography you enjoy (and is apparent you have any talent for), then practice makes perfect.

And for me that means that when I'm out and about (my thing is street photography), I let my subconscious do as much of the work as possible. That is, I don't go out telling myself, "I have to get a great shot today." I just walk about -- wearing my camera -- and the images present themselves to me. Some days I take 20 shots; other days only a few.

For me, undertaking a 365-day project forces discipline, not only of thinking about imagery every day, but also preventing repetitiveness. It works.

The main point is, as I always have my camera with me, whenever I'm walking about anywhere, anytime, if an image presents itself, I'm ready for it.

I bought a $150.00, nice camera bag when I bought my Cannon EOS Rebel T3I. I laugh now when I think of it because it is always sitting at home on the floor or in the car on the floor.

I always wear my camera and feel naked when I don't have it on. I go to Walt Disney World every other day so I am addicted to carrying it with me when I play at Disney.

I would like to get a shoulder strap like the Disney PhotoPass Photographers have though.

http://funmommie.blogspot.com/2012/04/photography.html

DApril 18, 2012 10:59 am

I completely agree with FUZZYPIG but I would go further to say that this article and the 'Spray and pray' mind set it advocates actually undermines photography as an art form. I was having a great day until I read this article; it made me really sad :( !

'Wearing' (shudder) a camera all day to point at anything you think is photo-worthy is completely mindless. There is nothing behind the photo; no idea, no theme, no form of expression and above all no artistic relevance. Just desperation; scraping the barrel by playing a numbers game to get that 'cool' shot. I can't express enough how utterly desperate and uncreative this use of a camera is.

It reminds me of the fact that if you put 100 monkeys into a room with 100 typewriters they will eventually produce a work of Shakespeare. However they will also throw a lot faeces and semen at each other in the process.

Mandeno MomentsApril 18, 2012 09:45 am

I've had a carry-everywhere camera on my belt for three years and find that not only do I get shots that I would otherwise miss, it also keeps my brain actively looking for photo opportunities and previsualising. The latter is good training and a valuable benefit.

Carrying a camera around my neck at all times would be hazardous to my health in the suburb where I live.

I use a Canon S95 because it's so small and light that I don't notice it, the image quality is very high, and it has full set of manual controls (as well as point-and-shoot). It's also very inconspicuous. A neoprene case made for a 2.5 inch external hard drive gives the camera a basic level of protection with little bulk (when inside a bag). If you have kids and need your hands free the S95 can be hung around your neck.

Perhaps these shots will inspire you to pack a camera; they were only possible because I had a carry-everywhere camera, i.e. the opportunities were totally unexpected:
http://mandenomoments.com/street-set-3/e1df20c3d
http://mandenomoments.com/street-set-2/e19284188
http://mandenomoments.com/street-set-2/e38c38877
http://mandenomoments.com/humour/eaae890b
http://mandenomoments.com/dogs/e347feb96
http://mandenomoments.com/dogs/e2e12681f

OsvaldoApril 18, 2012 05:41 am

I have a Canon 60D and it´s a little dificult to wear it all day, all the days. So I bought a Fuji X10 and I carry it everywere, normaly in my pocket . I have cut the neck strap( I think it´s stupid to have a neck strap with such a small camera) and made with it a wrist strap. It´s very nice and handy. Because it´s a such a easy camera to turn on and shoot I think I wear the Fuji- the «discreet mode» is very to shoot people .

Craig Patrich AshtonApril 18, 2012 01:42 am

FuzzyPiggy: "Spray-and-Pray". ROTFLMAO :) I like that. Not heard the term before...very funny!

Dave CooperApril 17, 2012 11:20 pm

Black Rapid R7 strap and a tripod when I shoot outdoors which is most days and tripod in studio. I also carry a camera in the car!

RickApril 17, 2012 11:04 pm

If you're into the journalism thing, I guess that's one thing. I specialize in landscapes, and that means seeing a scene perhaps many times before capturing it in the right weather and lighting circumstances. I don't just take my camera everywhere I go. However, when I'm traveling, I make a point to plan out some photo shoots along the way.It all depends on how you approach your craft. I just happen to do it a little more deliberately than this.

FuzzypiggyApril 17, 2012 10:37 pm

What on earth?

What's the need to capture every single, tiny little moment in your day that you feel the need to have a camera permanently glued to your person?! I pracice my photography on the way to work by looking at and studying the views in front of me without the distraction of having to faff about with a camera. By just spending time looking with my eyes and studying what I see I build up a massive archive of intersting snippets in my head rather than shed loads of pointless files on my hard drives. A photographers biggest investment is not their kitbag it's up here ( tapping my noggin ), it's learning to study compositional opportunities when they present themselves. So what if you miss a shot? Unless you're a paid pro journalist snapper, missing a one-off event is not the end of the world, annoying maybe but then that whole scene in all it's glory is imprinted on your memory and you will use that knowledge to better your snaps next time you do have a camera in your hand.

This all leads back to my pet hate about digitial photography, the "SHOOT EVERYTHING AND SORT IT LATER" syndrome. I don't shoot film, haven't shot film since around 2001 but the one thing that film shooting did teach me was to look and learn with my eyes and my brain, not just fire off shoots of all and sundry hoping to come home with something good. "Spray'n'pray" has fast become the mantra of the digital shooter and it's utterly tragic in my mind.

On my walk to work I used to carry a camera, held in my hand like some form of religious artefact on the off chance that I might snap a one-in-a-million shot, instead all I found was that I was worrying about making sure I got some pictures, no matter how boring, to a point where I had collected a big pile of rubbish shots of nothing very interesting. I don't bother now, I prefer to observe and try to log useful information about compositions in my noggin.

Now don't get me wrong, I am not saying don't take a camera out with you. My wife is studies geneology and we often head off somewhere in search of information about her long lost relatives, I'll grab my camera, sling it around my neck as there is most likely be something to practice shooting, however as I said before I prefer to actually take my time to study scenes without the camera butting in and making me take pictures without thinking.

Sarah NiceApril 17, 2012 10:29 pm

I take my camera (Sony Alpha 55 with kit lens) everywhere I go. Either in my handbag, around my neck, in my hand or in the camera bag when it has to be left in the car. I wear it around my neck when walking the dog or out cycling and many people do take a second look when they spot it. I have taken all my best shots when out cycling, walking or driving to and from work.

Nick HurstApril 17, 2012 07:29 pm

I wear mine when I'm out and about with family or on a walk at the weekends although I do find it a little bulky (D200 with a Tamron 18-270 attached is a big camera) and people found it little intrusive. So I purchased an old D40 (tiny by comparison) with a fixed Nikon 35mm and I use that instead, seems to draw less attention and it's less weight to lug around, plus if I bash it and break then it's less of an issue. Personally I would love a Leica MP-9, or something along those lines, small and nice to carry and it looks nice also - just a shame about the price tag....

Dave QuailApril 17, 2012 06:06 pm

I have taken to wearing my camera quite a bit recently, and has grabbed a couple of shots I otherwise would not have. Canon EOS 7D w/24-105L is not too heavy (I leave off the BG unless I am going on an extended shoot), and I also carry my Powershot S95 in my photog. jacket all the time.

JennApril 17, 2012 04:06 pm

With a DSLR it depends where I am. If I am out hiking, sure, no problem. If I am in a very touristy place with a high incidence of pickpocketing/theft, no way would I have it out all the time - no need to make oneself a target for theft.

Rachel from Redcliffe StyleApril 17, 2012 12:39 pm

I am getting a lot better at wearing my camera. It gets a little heavy with a handbag too but I have been getting better photos because it's with me a lot. Rachel

LesleyApril 17, 2012 12:12 pm

I bought a Nikon P7100 just a week back as an easy to carry, always with me yet unobtrusive camera (couldn't afford the X100!) so will be interesting to see if it does increase my work rate.
Also have Nikon D90 and for that I bought a BlackRapid strap with same aim of being more inclined to have it out and ready to shoot.
A digression: One note on BlackRapid is that the curved straps are made for people who 'wear' their camera on their right hip. But I find I hang mine on the left hip (strap on right shoulder, diagonally across body) - perhaps because that's how I've also worn my shoulder bags diagonally? As a result, I had to exchange the curved strap (RS W1) for a straight version (RS 5, which has in-built storage).
Curious - what hip do people tend to sit camera on if they wear it diagonally? (as I did even with standard-issue Nikon strap ... can't bear a strap round my neck).

JoeApril 17, 2012 11:58 am

Years ago I was on vacation in California and visited the Santa Monica Pier. Its beautiful and has lots of photo ops. I was walking around the pier with my camera back pack on and wearing my camera and shooting. The park rangers pulled me aside into their office and asked me to produce credentials. Apparently the pier is trade marked and charges professional photographers a fee to photograph it and produce the images. I was flattered. I did get some wonderful images that I will always cherish and the memory of being asked if I was a pro.

Not only did wearing my camera get me some great pictures it also help give the image (to myself) and the rangers that I was a professional photographer.

My favorite thing to do is load up my 4 dogs in the Jeep and head out to places we've never even seen before and I have one camera around my neck and another one in my lap at all times, everywhere we go. But, I have also gotten into the habit of wearing my camera around my neck everywhere I go while running around at work everyday. I am still pretty much an amatuer but I have learned so much more by doing this than when I used to unpack my camera on Saturday and go out shooting for awhile. It's a great way to meet people also.

Scott Wyden KivowitzApril 17, 2012 09:32 am

Whenever I'm out I have a camera with me. It's not always around my neck like Thorsten, but it's always over my shoulder.

Kathy DetweilerApril 17, 2012 09:30 am

I have my camera with me every time I leave the house. and sitting beside me when I'm in the house. Never know when something wonderful is going to happen to photograph!

Jared Rypka-HauerApril 17, 2012 07:42 am

I don't typically wear my camera, but for several weeks now it's been naked in the truck with me... out of the bag, ready to go. It even sits in the back seat sans-lens cap.

However I think I'm going to try wearing it for a while. It'll be interesting what sort of reactions I get since a 7D/vert grip/24-105mm/580EXII isn't exactly subtle.

I can say, though, that the other night I had my daughter at the park when 5 cop cars came roaring in and surrounded a group of people having a party in the picnic shelter. I don't think they even noticed me as I snapped a few interesting pictures of the police in action.

Things really do just happen around you when you have your camera on. Actually, they happen anyway, but when you have your camera with you what you remember is getting the shots, not lamenting that you missed them or that your camera was at home in that nifty bag.

Mr UlsterApril 17, 2012 07:18 am

Yes, I wear my iPhone 4S in a belt holster or trouser pocket. I also wear PhotoJojo magnetic snap on lenses on my neck or other trouser pocket. I've taken more photos in past 3 months than in past full year.

mateoApril 17, 2012 06:21 am

I am in no way a photographer, being I just got my first DSLR (NIKON D5100) about 2-3 months ago. I picked up a sling strap which let's me carry it easily over my shoulder. I do take more pictures and find that it is just part of whatever I'm wearing when heading out the door. So yes it helps presents opportunity to shot more and maybe get that pic I might have missed other wise. Also my train of thought has change from let me go shot, to I wonder what I'll return home with today!

javanApril 17, 2012 06:12 am

I am concerned about the fear of "negative" and "uncomfortable" situations. It is still perfectly legal to carry a camera and take pictures in the US. Tourists from other countries don't think anything about it just like most americans don't think anything about it when out of the states. Of course you should be polite and aware of the law. Definitely think before taking pictures in areas that might be security sensitive. It's legal to carry a camera. That's it.

javanApril 17, 2012 06:07 am

I was more likely to 'wear" my camera in the pre-digital age. I had a number of favorite secondhand cameras of different formats that I picked up for $25 here or there (Yashicmat 124G, Yashica Electro 35, Diana...). With digital, however, the price of the cameras seems to put me off to the idea of just carrying them all of the time. Even my Olympus Pen which i bought as a carry around camera seems too pricey to just have out all the time.

gipukan (Rob Gipman)April 17, 2012 05:01 am

My Camera is most always with me, in my bike side bag or in my lowepro messenger bag thatIi modified to fit my Asus eepad slider and a spare lens or a bottle of water or a flash ...etc..

JMApril 17, 2012 04:45 am

I have an X100. I bought the Fuji a year ago so that I could "wear" my camera. I have 3 dslrs of various sizes but I rather take my X100 with me anywhere, including going to groceries. I have a phone that I can take pictures with but I don't want to miss the opportunity to miss a great shot, or be able to get the shot but unable to print big due to the resolution. I used to carry a Nikon D60 before but it looked more out place, like basketball sneakers that you can't wear with a lot of stuff. The X100 is the equivalent of a black turtle neck. I don't endorse the X100 but just a personal opinion. Since I had the X100, my girlfriend no longer asks me not to bring a camera when we go out on a date. I have my camera sling across my body, under a jacket during the cooler months. Having a camera with you on the ready DOES change your perspective. You look at mundane, ordinary stuff "virtually" framing it and challenging yourself how you could make such ordinary thing special. But I had amazing shots on my wall that I took on regular days when I just happen to have a camera. I don't take pictures of people on the street, so I can't comment on how it feels like getting into strangers' faces. Whatever your choice of camera, get the best camera that you are comfortable bringing with you. If you feel like a tourist wearing your camera, then maybe you got the wrong equipment.

LucasApril 17, 2012 04:43 am

I received a Black Rapid strap for Christmas and found that it has dramatically increased the amount of time I wear my camera. We went to Disney for a week and I wore my D700 with 28-800 lens the entire time. The Black Rapid strap makes is so handy to just grab it when you need to snap a photo, or tuck it away behind you when needed. I also compared notes with all of the photographers that work there.

Alexander DiMauroApril 17, 2012 04:33 am

If photography is not your main profession, finding the time to practice is difficult. Wearing a camera really wouldn't help at work, and would probably make people feel uncomfortable!

And, if I remember correctly, you're not in the US, right? These days, wearing a camera in the US can get you stopped as a suspected terrorist. It even happened recently to the 'strobist' while taking a time-lapse of a maple tree (gasp! must be a terrorist! protect the maple tree!). It's pathetic.

If I'm hiking in a state park, I wear a camera and have it ready. But, as Rachel said above, depending on the situation, people may get uncomfortable with someone walking around with a camera. It's better to pick your moments than have it out all the time.

BarbroApril 17, 2012 04:22 am

I alway wear a camera (have a couple), practically even from room to room at home. Very often I take the pocketable Olympus XZ-1, inconspicuous and handy for candids in the street and great also indoors if "needed". Full gear, body and lens(es) only when my planned purpose is photography.

Linda GibbonsApril 17, 2012 04:08 am

i don't wear it per se, because it has a weird little strap...When I am out looking for interesting things, it's always on, and in my hand with the strap wrapped around my wrist.
~Linda

KathyApril 17, 2012 03:41 am

I used to wear my camera when we traveled but not so much on a day-to-day basis when we're home. After taking a bad fall in which I went one way and my camera went another I will not take the camera out of it's bag unless I'm ready to take a pic. I have a small "day" pack that I keep over my shoulder in which the camera is well protected in the event of another stumble and it's readily accessible.

steve slaterApril 17, 2012 03:11 am

I always wear my camera. If I do not then I will inevitely miss something good.

For those of you who do wear your camera, HOW do you wear it? What strap/string/gizmo do you use? Is it comfortable? Handy?

MridulaApril 17, 2012 02:10 am

I do wear my camera when I am on a vacation. Once I was around the Big Ben area and I thought just because I was wearing a SLR I was asked more to click a picture of the couples and families who wanted everyone in their group in the picture. But in my daily life, I shudder what will happen if I did it around my workplace.

Excellent article defo... I bought myself a black rapid sling strap, very comfortable and hangs beautifully, shoot and drop! I use it on my Leica M8 preset to range focusing at approx 1 metre to get real close shots.

I've recently got back into photography after a number of years letting it slide. I used to shoot film with an old Nikkormat FT which I did wear much of the time. The first time I picked up my new DSLR, a Nikon D700, I thought ' wow, this is HUGE and HEAVY!' In the beginning it was a real challenge to take it with me, and often I found when I took it in a bag, it stayed in the bag.

It no longer feels so huge and heavy to me, and I find myself wearing it on a pretty regular basis. I don't take it everywhere of course, it doesn't go grocery shopping with me or, you know, to the opera.

It's made a big difference in how I feel about shooting--it's just easier and more natural to me to take photos this way. Also I do 'feel' like a photographer more than when it's in my bag. It seems a lot more conspicuous to me to go through all the fumbling it takes to get the camera out of my bag and into shooting position.

A lot of people ask me to take their picture with their camera or cell phone. That happened to me this weekend while I was out shooting at Harbourfront here in Toronto. A young couple asked me to take a photo of them on their i-phone, and I asked if I could also take one of them with my camera. While I was composing my shot, I was chatting with them to get them to relax and be more natural. One of the challenges of shooting total strangers--especially strangers in tourist mode as these two were-- is to get some genuine emotion and interaction between them for the picture. Anyway, I was kind of running out of things to ask, so I asked if they were married. They both kind of froze for a second and I was thinking, hmm, maybe not a good thing to ask, when the guy said 'oh well, may as well do this now". He pulled a ring out of his pocket, got down on one knee and proposed to her on the spot! Wow! I certainly got some genuine emotion and interaction there! (She said yes in a BIG way.)

That's one example of a pretty good experience, not to mention photo opportunity, I would not have had if I was not wearing my camera.

YucelApril 17, 2012 01:39 am

Sometimes I wear a camera... I also like my Nikon 70-200 VR2 2.8 lens... Especially while out... However, I think wearing the lens on the camera may put too much pressure on the lens mounting... It's a big lens...

Wearing the camera does provide opportunities for shots and also for making contacts and connections with potential customers... However,.. then I end up with even more shots to review and edit...

Rachel LynnApril 17, 2012 01:39 am

I wore a camera for a couple of months a year or two ago. While I did take more photos, most people responded negatively to a person walking around with a camera out- even when it was off and had a lens cap on. So I decided it wasn't worth it.

dougApril 17, 2012 01:27 am

While I'd find it difficult to constantly have a dSLR hanging from my shoulder, I could definitely see carrying around a x100 or something similar. Unfortunately, by the time I secure my dSLR bucket list the latest offering of mirrorless cameras will have gone by way of the dinosaurs- But, just like Louis, I always have my bag with me.

BrianaApril 17, 2012 01:19 am

I've been wearing my camera for about a year now. I also keep a point and shoot in my purse at all times just in case I don't have my DSLR on me (in which case it's simply in the trunk of my car). I've actually changed cameras 3 times in the last year though, upgrading each time, and I don't think that would have happened had I not been wearing/using it as much. So warn your pocketbook if you do start wearing your camera. But it's also opened up lots of opportunities for me as an amateur photographer. In fact, I had my first paid photoshoot yesterday, so I guess I can't say I'm amateur anymore!

louis pelataApril 17, 2012 01:09 am

I don't "wear" a camera. I do carry around a basic kit everywhere I go. easily accessible with a 17-55 attached.

raghavendraApril 17, 2012 01:05 am

I have seen a lot of photographers always wear their camera's wherever they go.